Frequently
asked questions

There are many different options for tertiary education, so it’s important to think about what you want to do to help you make your decision.

You can talk to people you know who have been here before or chat with the friendly international student support teams at each tertiary education provider.

There’s more information available on the Tertiary Education website.

National Certificates of Educational Achievement (or NCEA) are the qualifications senior students at secondary school work towards. There are three levels, and the qualifications are recognised by employers and tertiary providers here and overseas.

The Careers website has more information on NCEA.

University Entrance is the minimum requirement to get into an Aotearoa New Zealand University and involves achieving credits in certain subject.

But be warned, even if somebody achieves NCEA this does not automatically mean they achieve University Entrance.

The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) website breaks this down even more.

Most programmes at Level 3 (usually the last year of secondary school) or higher have English language requirements (unless they are English Language programmes). The NZQA has some clear guidance on the requirements.

There are several ways to check if you’re earning a recognised qualification. You should find out if the institution is registered, if the programme is approved, if there has recently been an external review and if the organisation has signed up to the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students.

You can always check in with NZQA if you’re not entirely sure.

There are lots of industries in demand including:

• Construction
• Engineering
• Finance
• Health and social services.

In the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions, there is particular demand for:

• Agriculture and forestry
• Education
• Engineering
• Health and social services
• Recreation, hospitality and tourism
• Trades.

There is more information on industries in demand on the Immigration New Zealand website.

Often referred to as ‘O’Week’, orientation happens at the start of the semester and involves a variety of events held to orient and welcome new students. It’s a great way to familiarise yourself with the campus and support services available, make new friends and celebrate the start of your study journey.

Most people on a student visa can have a part-time job while they study — you may even be able to work full-time during study breaks, like the summer holiday period. Check your individual student visa for your entitlements.

If you’re under 18-years-old you must discuss your plans with your school, tertiary provider, family and agent. You may be able to visit your family overseas, stay in your homestay, move into temporary accommodation or take a short course during this time.

If you’re over 18-years-old, you might want to travel around Aotearoa New Zealand, work, take summer classes or visit your family overseas for a holiday.

Secondary school:

• Structured timetable
• Smaller class sizes
• Same age group
• One-on-one learning support with teachers.

Tertiary:

• Class timetables vary
• Larger class sizes
• Various age groups
• You take responsibility: class timetables, self-directed study, assessment schedules, ask tutors for help if you need it.

Course fees can differ depending on the course and provider you choose to enrol with. Find out more about course fees for the specific providers in our regions:

• Toi Ohomai
  
• University of Waikato
  
• Wintec.

You may be required to pay other fees in addition to tuition fees such as international student insurance, student services levy and course-related costs like textbooks or equipment. You’ll need to have funds readily available to cover these additional costs.

You will also need to budget each year for living costs as part of your student visa application. Your living costs will depend on your accommodation and lifestyle; you should have at least $17,000 to $22,000 per year of study.

Here are some links to more information you might find helpful:

• Certificates to doctorates, here’s how they level out
• Major or minor, qualification terminology explained
• High school vs tertiary?
• Visa requirements.